How To Replace Your Idler Arm

If the new Pitman is in or you're not doing that job today, go ahead and finish up the idler arm:
Prepare a new cotter pin to match the one you removed by trimming it with the diagonal pliers so that both the long and short end match the pin you removed. Place the idler arm's bolt in the centerlink. Insert the new bolts through the frame making sure to put the new washers under the bolt heads. Position the idler arm so the frame bolts slide through the bolt holes. Install the washers and the nuts. Torque to your car's specs. Install the large nut on the idler arm centerlink bolt. Tighten to spec taking care to line up the cotter pin holes. Always tighten to align the holes, never go backwards! Install the new cotter pin, grease the arm and you are finished.

• Understanding Your Idler Arm (and Pitman Arm)
• Tools You'll Need
• Removing the Idler Arm
• Remove the Idler Arm Bolts
• Separate the Idler Arm from the Centerlink
• Pause, then Reinstall the Idler Arm